Prior to the promotion, the new crown prince was dictating defense and oil policy, including overseeing plans to privatize state oil giant Aramco, within his role.

He also led the war effort in Yemen against rebels, is extremely hostile toward Iran and helped orchestrate Qatar’s isolation in the weeks after US President Donald Trump bolstered ties with Riyadh during a May visit.

State television showed Prince Mohammed kissing the hands of his shafted cousin, portraying a smooth handover and laying to rest concern there might be a power struggle for the throne in the future.

Thirty-one of the 34 members in the Allegiance Council, which decides on matters of succession, voted in favor of the appointment.